Robert Lewandowski's successor?! Barcelona keep tabs on Dusan Vlahovic ahead of contract expiry as Catalan side eye fresh blood up front

Only months ago, Vlahovic’s Juventus future looked dead and buried. After refusing to extend his contract on reduced wages, the club slapped him on the transfer list. But with no serious bids forthcoming, he was forced to stay put in Turin. Now, Vlahovic has exploded into form this campaign, smashing in four goals and providing an assist in just four outings, including a jaw-dropping brace against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League opener. His resurgence has transformed him from a cast-off into one of Europe’s hottest properties.

According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Barcelona aren’t alone in the hunt. Atletico Madrid already tested the waters in the summer, enquiring about the striker’s availability in case either Julian Alvarez or Alexander Sørloth had packed their bags. While both stayed, Diego Simeone remains a keen admirer and could reignite his interest.

Meanwhile, Manchester United’s striking situation continues to be a merry-go-round. The club is crying out for a consistent No.9, with Joshua Zirkzee failing to fully convince. Old Trafford chiefs are keeping tabs on Vlahovic as a marquee fix for their frontline.

For Barcelona, the urgency is even sharper. Lewandowski turns 38 in August 2026, and the Catalan club knows his reign at the top can’t last forever. With his contract winding down, Joan Laporta and Deco are scouring the market for a figurehead who can lead their line for years to come.

Vlahovic’s heart is set on a move to the Premier League when the transfer window opens next summer. The striker’s camp is reportedly demanding a whopping €10 million annual salary plus a €10m signing bonus to sweeten the deal. That price tag alone may narrow the field to England’s financial heavyweights. But Barcelona, struggling with their economic headaches, will need creativity and possibly sacrifice to pull off such a signing.